After breakfast, start your guided tour of the city. Later, head to the Peradeniya Botanic Gardens (10km / approx. 45 mins) for a walk through its extensive grounds. Bordered on three sides by the Mahaweli River, the gardens were established in 1824 and still feature one of the world’s largest collections of flora. You will see towering royal palms, giant ficus trees, an impressive orchid house, and a wide variety of hardwood trees, including teak, ebony, mahogany, and satinwood.
In the late afternoon, visit a local hall to watch a live performance highlighting traditional Sri Lankan music, drumming, and cultural dance.
Following the show, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), considered the most important Buddhist shrine on the island. The temple features highly detailed carvings and classic Sri Lankan art. You will visit during the evening ‘puja’ ceremony, joining local pilgrims who come to offer flowers and wait in line for a glimpse of the golden casket said to hold the sacred relic. Overnight in Kandy
